The Denver Nuggets are eager to begin their postseason campaign against the Minnesota Timberwolves. These two teams have clashed in the playoffs in two of the last three years. The Nuggets are seeking revenge after the Timberwolves eliminated them in their previous meeting in 2024.
Game 1 of the Western Conference first-round series is set for Saturday in Denver.
Nuggets Injury Report
After being sidelined for 25 of the Nuggets’ final 30 regular-season games due to hamstring issues, backup wing Peyton Watson will remain out for Game 1. Backup forward Spencer Jones is listed as questionable.
The Nuggets are hopeful to have their full rotation available at some point this postseason. Jones’ status is worth monitoring leading up to tip-off, as his bench role has increased throughout the season.
Timberwolves Injury Concerns
Anthony Edwards’ status heading into Game 1 is uncertain. He missed ten of Minnesota’s final 13 games. Edwards has been listed as questionable with a knee issue.
The Timberwolves went 12-9 without Edwards this season, including a loss to the Nuggets and a 4-7 record against playoff teams. Edwards’ knee issue is their only injury to report ahead of Game 1.
Ideally, Edwards will be available for Saturday’s Game 1. The Nuggets could catch a break if he has to sit.
Projected Starting Lineups
The Nuggets’ starting lineup remains intact, despite injuries to their second unit.
Nuggets: Jamal Murray, Christian Braun, Cam Johnson, Aaron Gordon, Nikola Jokic
The Timberwolves’ starting lineup could change if Edwards is unavailable for Game 1.
Timberwolves: Anthony Edwards, Donte DiVincenzo, Jaden McDaniels, Julius Randle, Rudy Gobert
If Edwards is ruled out, Mike Conley will likely start. This is a high-powered battle between two of the league’s best teams, making Saturday’s Game 1 highly anticipated.
Playoff History
- The Nuggets and Timberwolves have met in the playoffs in two of the last three years.
- The Timberwolves eliminated the Nuggets in their last playoff meeting in 2024.
The Nuggets are looking for revenge after their previous playoff loss to Minnesota.